Camargue: Off the Beaten Path in Provence
There is a slice of Provence, off the beaten path, that offers a surprising twist from the classic lavender fields, towering cypress and medieval sand stone villages capping the mountaintops. Camargue is more about white horses, flamingos, marsh lands, salt beds, and relaxed resorts allowing for sunkissed lounging poolside. We met the white horses upon our arrival in the marshlands of Camargue and Mr. C.T and Sebastien made new friends immediately.
The white Horses of Camargue
There is a slice of Provence, off the beaten path, that offers a surprising twist from the classic lavender fields, towering cypress and medieval sand stone villages capping the mountaintops. Camargue is more about white horses, flamingos, marsh lands, salt beds, and relaxed resorts allowing for sunkissed lounging poolside. We met the white horses upon our arrival in the marshlands of Camargue and Mr. C.T and Sebastien made new friends immediately.
Following our friendly greeting from these stately creatures we headed to Le Mas de la Fougue for a relaxing stay. Our sunny suite had a private terrace that opened directly to the pool deck with lounge chairs perfect for a dip or sipping a citrus infused sangria. Sublime!
The pace of life in Camargue slowed us down almost instantly.
The sunsets are golden in this slice of Provence.
A tour of our ‘Patio Suite’
The fresh fare at La Table de Marius was beyond delicious. We enjoyed the local delicacies and creative infusions prepared by the inspiring chef, Denis Gamard. Service was friendly and impeccable. Each dish was a work of art!
“Head to western Europe’s largest delta, where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean Sea, and you’ll find a lesser known side of Provence. The Camargue spreads like a fan from the ancient Roman city of Arles, and in its folds lie green rice paddies, rose-colored salt flats, grass-filled marshes, and wide, windswept beaches. Nearly 400 species of birds call it home, as do prized black bulls and indigenous horses tended by gardians, the local cowboys who bolster the region’s wild-west reputation. “The Camargue is a mosaic of color, light, and mood,” says resident Frédéric Lamouroux, director of the Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau. “A tableau of land and water, wildlife and passionate people, it’s like nowhere else in France.””
For more on the Camargue here. To book your next trip to France contact Curated Travel.
Thank you to Sebastien, Creative Destinations and Le Mas de la Fougue for the welcoming and relaxing stay.
Highlights from Les Baux, Carrieres des Lumieres and Pont du Gard
Les Baux-de-Provence is a medieval village high on a hilltop with stunning views of the valley below. Located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southern France the stone, sand, terracotta, flower boxes and sky blue shutters welcome. You feel transported back to a simpler time when wandering the winding, cobble stone streets.
Les Baux-de-Provence is a medieval village high on a hilltop with stunning views of the valley below. Located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southern France the stone, sand, terracotta, flower boxes and sky blue shutters welcome. You feel transported back to a simpler time when wandering the winding, cobble stone streets.
Les Baux, France
Carrières de Lumières
Carved out of a former quarry this multimedia art show is a feast for the senses. Famous works of art come to life set to soaring musical pieces. This installation is a must-see for those who appreciate art and music come to life.
Ponte du Gard
Next up, the Pont du Gard is located near Nîmes, Uzés and Avignon. This Unesco world heritage site is the most visited ancient monument in France and we climbed it with a private guide. It’s not for the faint of heart but we felt accomplished and honored to view this ancient and timeless landmark from the top.
Learn more of Pont du Gard here
Our thanks to Sebastien from Creative Destinations for introducing us to these unforgettable experiences in Provence. To curate your dream trip to France contact Curated Travel here.
To book your tickets to Carrieres des Lumieres here.
To book a private tour of Arles, Saint-Rémy, Les Baux de Provence and Carrières de Lumières Day Trip from Aix en Provence here.
A Visit to Classic Provence with a Sweet Stay at La Maison D'Uzès
Provence is everything you have likely pictured in your mind’s eye. Pastel houses, shimmery sunlight, colorful window boxes of blooms, with pastel café tables dotting the gardens and patios ready for a moment of reflection over a robust Café Crème or chilled rosé. The lifestyle in Provence is simply irresistible.
Provence is everything you have likely pictured in your mind’s eye. Pastel houses, shimmery sunlight, colorful window boxes of blooms, with pastel café tables dotting the gardens and patios ready for a moment of reflection over a robust Café Crème or chilled rosé. The lifestyle in Provence is simply irresistible.
“The city of Uzès is a joy to discover, full of history and with a delightful atmosphere. Situated between Avignon and Nîmes, Uzès is a charming town with narrow streets lined with beautiful tall buildings made of honey-coloured stone.”
On our recent trip to France we spent one night at the charming Hotel La Maison d’Uzès originating in the 17th century in the heart of Uzès located northwest of Avignon. I was enamoured with our french luxe suite with lovely views of the city. The bathroom was one of the most spacious I’ve ever enjoyed, especially with that soaking tub! Though at the tip top of a steep, winding staircase (pity the kind bellman who hauled my suitcase) we enjoyed the beauty of this charming perch.
A tour of our suite at Hotel La Maison d’Uzès
Our evening, hosted by Sebastien with Creative Destinations, started with a chic little cocktail party by the fireside. We enjoyed a true foodie dining experience at Table d’Uzès later that evening. We were taken with the fresh and innovative menu in the heart of Provence.
“The chef selects the finest products, and most beautiful fruits and vegetables. Tomatoes, courgettes, beans, and aubergines ripen slowly in the warm sunshine in this part of the world. Regional cuisine combines their colours and flavours, accenting them with aromatic herbs. Pastries are made with sun-kissed fruit: peaches, apricots, and nectarines. This freshness and sweetness are in keeping with the hotel’s spirit.”
To learn more about Uzès here. For more information on La Maison d’UZES and to book contact me. Our thanks to Sebastien from Creative Destinations and the staff at La Maison d’Uzes for our memorable stay.
Contact us to learn more about making your dream travel come true!
Heather
A Visit to Charming Baumanière in Les Baux-de-Provence
On a cloudless day with brilliant azure skies we arrived at Baumanière in Les Baux de Provence. Trust me, for any lovers of French gardens the grounds were the stuff of dreams! Pure Provencial charm embellished with towering cypress, clipped boxwood hedges - fragrant rosemary, lavender, citrus and roses - enhanced with vintage ironwork and the classic eggshell blue painted trims. Café sets placed under trees and trellises create alfresco living at it’s french best.
On a cloudless day graced with brilliant azure skies, we arrived at Baumanière in Les Baux de Provence. Trust me, for any lovers of French gardens the grounds are the stuff of dreams! Pure Provencial charm embellished with towering cypress, clipped boxwood hedges - fragrant rosemary, lavender, citrus, and roses - enhanced with vintage ironwork and the classic eggshell blue painted trims. Café sets placed under trees and trellises create alfresco living at its French best.
“Our domain is above all a place on the fringe of life where we feel at home, between poetry and reality, everything becomes possible for a moment.”
The accomodations range from modern and airy with contemporary touches to classically charming suites with extraordinary views of surrounding Provence.
A tour of our suite at Baumanière
We were graciously invited to dine at the 2 Michelin starred L'Oustau de Baumanière with renown chef/owner Jean-André Charial creating one of the most exquisite foodie dining experiences of our lives.
To learn more about the dining experiences available check out Gastronomy at Baumanière.
“Baumanière : beautiful manners, the art of living and welcoming everything and everyone with an acute sense of happiness”
”Baumanière is an institution in Provence whose renown goes well beyond the national borders. For seventy years, Baumanière has represented much more than a destination for a luxury getaway. It is a philosophy, an authentic and sincere way of life, the secret and taste of which were passed down to me by my grandfather, Raymond Thuilier, the founder of the establishment. Elegance, serenity, respect for the environment and people are the values held dear by Baumanière, the work of a visionary who created a paradise in his own image.
It is not an easy thing to stay on the top for one or two decades, but to remain so for over seventy years demonstrates our capacity to innovate while never forgoing our objective of excellence. Baumanière is in no way a museum of bygone days... Today, it is different and yet similar to the Baumanière of the past. Similar because of its excellent culinary tradition and refined, discreet and friendly hospitality. Different due to its capacity to adapt to modernity and respond to the needs of a new generation of guests. Living fully in one’s times while preserving the essential values of top class hospitality is what Baumanière is all about.”
The view from our terrace
To learn more about this extraordinary destination Baumanière and contact Heather at Curated Travel to book.
I can offer Virtuoso Amenities for your stay
Upgrade at time of arrival, subject to availability
Complimentary buffet breakfast for two daily for the duration of the stay
A complimentary lunch at la Table d’hôtes for 2 people per room, excluding alcohol, taxes, and gratuities once during stay
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Our thanks to the team at Baumanière for making our stay so memorable. Thank you to Sebastien of Creative Destinations for the invitation to explore the best of Provence.
A Springtime Visit to Paris and the Chic Le Royal Monceau
Last month we had the pleasure of returning to one of our favorite destinations, Paris. It was a quick stop over on our way to Provence and the French Riviera but we made the most of time. We checked into the Le Royal Monceau and were immediately taken with the touch of whimsy (note upside down flower pot arrangement) and sleek, modern vibe of this Philippe Starck designed hotel. Our suite came complete with delicious welcoming macaroons, plush robes, linens and Clarins bath products and even a guitar for Mr. C.T. They thought of everything!
Last month we had the pleasure of returning to one of our favorite destinations, Paris. It was a quick stop over on our way to Provence and the French Riviera but we made the most of our time. We checked into the Le Royal Monceau and were immediately taken with the touch of whimsy (note upside down flower pot arrangement) and sleek, modern vibe of this Philippe Starck designed hotel. Our suite came complete with delicious welcoming macarons, plush robes, linens and Clarins bath products and even a guitar for Mr. C.T. They thought of everything!
A video tour of our suite
Jet lag had set in but we were determined to freshen up, explore the neighborhood near the Arc de Triomphe, and enjoy a Parisian dinner. We didn’t have to walk far to find this charming spot, l'Elysée Saint Honoré, just down the block. Fresh chevre salad, the savory fish special, and a rich cannelloni paired with a lush red suited us just fine on this watercolor evening. After many hours of travel, we slept like babies in Paris that night!
With only one full day in Paris we enjoyed breakfast ensuite then set off to wander and explore, enjoy some cafe’ life and soak up the culture of Paris.
Our wanderings took us from ritzy boutiques to classical French apartment buildings with peek-a-boo gardens, to stops at the hip Hotel Costes and Budda Bar Paris. Eventually, we landed for lunch at La Coupe D’Or on Saint Honore’ for a fondly remembered chevre salad. As you can see, I found the French crowd to be very friendly.
“Paris is always a good idea.”
Let’s face it, the food in Paris is always a highlight. On our final night the concierge recommended we visit Allard for a truly authentic dining experience. The simple, yet luxurious fare, is unforgettable. The roasted Bourbonnais free-range chicken with roasted potatoes was unlike any chicken we had ever tasted. It was infused with butter (french style) and dripping with flavor. This classic is now owned by famed chef Alain Ducasse who endeavors to keep the traditional menu alive.
“For over 80 years, Allard has been one of the most sought after gourmet addresses in Paris
Located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, it remains one of the last authentic French gourmet bistros. Today still, the establishment is filled with the spirit of Marthe Allard, « mother cook » who founded the restaurant in 1932. Allard is above all the story of a peasant from the Burgundy region who traveled up to Paris carrying her sincere and generous family recipes.”
Paris by night
Le Royal Monceau in Paris is one of the preferred partners for the CADENCE travel brand and is a member of the Virtuoso luxury network. As a travel advisor, it’s exciting to share our favorite destinations with blog readers and clients. Contact me to receive VIP upgrades and amenities at this luxurious and chic hotel.
Virtuoso Amenities:
Upgrade at time of booking, subject to availability
Complimentary buffet breakfast daily for up to two in-room guests served in La Cuisine Restaurant
Guaranteed late check-out until 4 PM
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Next up on our trip to France: Provence
Postcard from Paris, Provence and the Cote d'Azur
Paris, Provence and the Cote d’Azur. These destinations, though different in feel, bring to mind a kalidescope of colors, textures, flavors and views of this picturesque country. Though it is late March we’re enjoying mostly sunny days and warm breezes on the French Riviera. Rain in Paris only adds to the watercolor effect of shimmering streets.
Paris, Provence and the Cote d’Azur. These destinations, though different in feel, bring to mind a kalidescope of colors, textures, flavors and views of this picturesque country. Though it is late March we’re enjoying mostly sunny days and warm breezes on the French Riviera. Rain in Paris only adds to the watercolor effect of shimmering streets. Mr. C.T. and I are loving every moment of this magnifique tour of Paris, Provence and the Cote d’Azur and I look forward to sharing more travel inspiration on the blog upon our return.
Bien à vous ,
Heather
